J.M. Valle is an accomplished Executive Producer, Songwriter, Publisher, Graphic Designer, Promoter, and Writer of Raza Del Soul.
Born and raised in East Side San José, California, Valle's roots trace back to a family that experienced the challenges of immigrant life. His grandfather arrived in the United States through the Bracero program, a government initiative that provided labor during World War II. Valle's parents, both farmworkers, relocated to San José in the late 1970s, seeking opportunities in the tech industry during the city's emergence as a hub for low-rider culture. Growing up, Valle faced systemic issues within the education system, police harassment, and the daily struggles of life in the barrio.
In 2009, Valle established the Souleros Ball, a pioneering public event for Rare Oldies (Soul Harmony/Low-rider Oldies) record collectors, enabling them to share their collections with a live audience. This event sparked a movement that encompassed Oldies vinyl nights, Chicano artwork, and new recordings of the Rare Low-rider Oldies sound.
While the Souleros Ball featured live performances from its beginning, a significant turning point occurred in 2011 with a performance by Myron and E from Timmion Records (Finland, Europe). This event created a vital connection between contemporary artists and the Raza community. At Valle's request, Myron and E performed a rendition of The Exit's "Under the Street Lamp," which subsequently led to a record contract with Stones Throw Records. That same year, Wax Poetics Magazine published a cover story highlighting the burgeoning Chicano Rare Oldies scene, featuring Valle and his contributions.
In 2015, Valle took on the roles of writer and director for the music video "Joyride" by The Jack Moves (Wax Poetics). The video depicted la Chicanada and included cameos from notable figures such as OG Dave (Barrio Brawler), Victor Barrera (Duke of Earl Movie), Roberto Hernandez (SF Lowrider Council), and Big Serg (The Principal). Filmed across San José, San Francisco's Mission District, and Oakland, the video was dedicated to Sonny Madrid, founder of Low Rider Magazine and Teen Angel, both of which had significant ties to San José and who passed away that same year.
After navigating various challenges, Valle formed Thee Baby Cuffs, a group consisting of Joe Narvaez, Gilberto Rodriguez, and Dave Herrera, marking the beginning of his songwriting and production career.
In 2017, Valle self-released a reimagined version of Larry Sanders' “Where Did Peace Go,” collaborating with The M-Tet (Bay Area). He adapted the lyrics to reflect the experiences of the Raza community, retitling the protest song to “Where Did Our Pride Go.” This release coincided with nationwide protests against the presidential inauguration of Donald Trump. A 45 RPM single followed on Cinco de Mayo of that year.
The following year, Valle penned “My My My Baby,” a song inspired by his early relationship with his wife, the challenges of marriage, and familial expectations. Although recorded as a demo at Chris Lujan's (Lugnut Brand Records) studio, it remained unreleased. However, Cold Diamond and Mink (Stylart, a subsidiary of Timmion Records) produced an uptempo version that brought international attention to both Valle's songwriting and Thee Baby Cuffs.
In 2019, Valle released a reissue of Suenos’ “Baby I Love You,” featuring the Spanish version as the B-side for the first time on 45 RPM. Valle had previously connected with band leader Frank Lizarraga to perform at the Souleros Ball in 2013 in Sacramento, California. The original single was pressed in 1982 by San José's Luna Records, with the Spanish version appearing on the following year's album. This reissue was notable as the sought-after English version had never been included on an album.
Outside of music, Valle has contributed to Street Low Magazine, authoring two cover stories, one featuring R&B Bay Area artist Davina. He also highlighted the Souleros Ball in an article accompanied by a cover story on Benjamin Bratt, star of the film La Mission. Valle has written for Teen Angel Magazine, including a cover story on tattoo artists Pistolero Viejo, which was the final issue printed. Additionally, he has curated various art shows showcasing works by prison and local artists. Valle is recognized for his community involvement in areas such as prison reform, human rights advocacy, youth engagement, historic preservation, and mural advocacy.
